Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At okhost.co.uk, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or a sporting event. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.

When you play at non-GamStop casinos, you do so at your own risk. Always gamble within your means and only spend money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

In the United Kingdom, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in casino games or place bets.

All reputable online casinos require age and identity verification before you can open an account and deposit funds. This is a legal requirement and a crucial safeguarding measure.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from friends and family
• Loss of control: Being unable to stick to set limits on time or money spent
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
• Financial problems: Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when not gambling
• Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
• Failed attempts to quit: Being unable to reduce or stop gambling despite wanting to
• Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
• Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits

Self-Help Tools & Safety Features

Most legitimate online casinos provide tools to help you stay in control of your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a limit on the total amount you're willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily restrict access to your account for hours or days
• Self-Exclusion: Permanently close your account if you feel you cannot control your gambling

Take advantage of these features whenever you feel your gambling might be getting out of control.

Support Organisations & Helplines

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of the following organisations:

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free, confidential support for problem gambling
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  Register to self-exclude from all GamStop-licensed operators
• Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings across the UK
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
• National Debtline – Help with gambling-related debt
  Helpline: 0808 808 4000 (free, Monday–Friday 8am–8pm)

International Support

• Australia: Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  Website: www.bzga.de

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. There is no shame in asking for help. The organisations listed above provide free, confidential advice and support.

If you are struggling with gambling, please contact one of these services today. You don't have to face this alone.